Beaches, Parks & Gardens

Think “beach day,” Keys-style. Here, sandy stretches pop up in a few special spots, but most water access comes with a twist—limestone rocks, shady mangroves, and clear shallows that feel like your own natural swimming pool. Add in tropical gardens, local parks and playgrounds, and trails perfect for wandering, and you’ve got plenty of ways to play outside. From state parks to secret picnic spots, these listings prove you don’t need miles of sand to enjoy paradise—you just need a sunblock and a little curiosity.

Key West

Gato Village Pocket Park

Historic Key West park celebrating the 1880s Gato Village and cigar-making heritage.

Key West

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Marine sanctuary protecting reefs, seagrass, mangroves & heritage in the Florida Keys.

Key West

Key West Aquarium

Explore Key West Aquarium's vibrant marine life and interactive touch tanks!

Weddings Max

150

Meetings Max

150

Key West

Higgs Beach & Reynolds Street Pier

Beach & pier park in Key West with courts & sunset views.

Key Largo

Mike Forster Memorial Park

Mike Forster Memorial Park is a cozy, open 3-acre park in Key Largo (20 Sunset Road) with limited parking, open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset.

Key West

Clarence S.Higgs Memorial Beach Park

Higgs Beach Park in Key West features sandy beaches, turquoise waters, historic sites like Fort West Martello, a beachside café, a children’s playground, and recreational amenities including snorkeling, kayaking, and tennis.

Key Largo

Peace Park At Nelson Government Center

Bayfront park with pavilions & scenic picnic views in Key Largo

Marathon

Curry Hammock State Park

Curry Hammock State Park features a 1,200-foot sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and kiteboarding.

The Lower Keys

Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park

Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park — multi-use recreation park with athletic courts and a fenced off-leash dog area on Big Pine Key.

Key Largo

MOTE Key Largo Coral Nursery

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Florida Keys Research Campuses are dedicated to coral reef science and restoration.

Key Largo

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park protects vast wetland, forest, and marine habitats with wildlife viewing, ranger programs, tours, and outdoor recreation in South Florida.